If you have a plumbing problem, it's better to call a professional plumber immediately rather than try to fix it on your own. Even so, there are a few things every homeowner should know about their home's plumbing system. Here are three of the most important plumbing facts to be familiar with.
1. How to Find and Turn Off the Main Water Valve in the House
It's good to know this fact before there's an emergency. If you own your home, find your home's inspection report. This report will clearly note the location of the main water valve inside the house. Write down the location and post it on your home's refrigerator door or in some other handy location. Make sure everyone in the house knows where this valve is located and how to turn it off.
If you're standing in water and desperate to find the valve, look around the perimeter of your home. It's likely to be at ground level. If you really can't find it, you will probably need to turn off the main water valve outside the house, which is significantly more challenging than turning the interior water valve.
If you are in the midst of a plumbing emergency, turn off the home's main water valve by turning the valve clockwise. Depending on the type of valve you have, you will need to turn the valve more or less. Just keep turning until the water stops flowing while you wait for your plumber to arrive.
2. How to Find and Turn Off the Main Water Valve Outside the House
If you can't find or turn off the main water valve inside your house or if the leak is outside your home, you will need to turn off the home's exterior water valve. To find this valve, look for a round, square or rectangular lid in your yard. Remove the lid and then carefully remove any dirt or sand inside.
The valve you need to turn will be on the house side of your water meter, and you will probably need a wrench or some other tool to turn it. The valve should be turned clockwise to shut off the water. This is another valve that it would be good to find before you are in an emergency situation.
3. How to Shut Off Water Close to the Source
Thankfully, you don't have to shut your entire home's water supply off if you have a leak or some other small problem. You can find water valves close to your home's sinks, toilets, bathtubs and even in the laundry room. These valves will stop the water supply to specific areas so that they can be repaired or replaced.
The toilet valve is usually behind the toilet, sinks valves are typically behind the sink or in a cupboard and laundry room and bathtub valves are usually in highly visible locations. Simply turn the knob to the appropriate device clockwise to shut off the water supply.
When you're familiar with key plumbing facts, you'll be better prepared to deal with any problems that arise. However, sometimes you simply need a professional. The Pink Plumber specializes in emergency plumbing repair as well as regular plumbing maintenance. We provide 24/7 services, use only the best tools and offer experienced workmanship to ensure your plumbing remains in good working order at all times. Contact us anytime you need a hand and we will be happy to repair problems, replace parts and offer advice that can prevent future plumbing issues.
